What are Access Audits?

Access audits involve a detailed assessment of existing buildings or environments. They evaluate compliance with accessibility requirements under the National Construction Code (NCC). They also follow the Premises Standards and relevant Australian Standards.

They provide a clear understanding of how a building performs in relation to accessibility. They also identify any areas of non-compliance or improvement.

When Access Audits Are Required

Access audits are commonly undertaken:

  • prior to building upgrades or refurbishments
  • when purchasing or leasing a property
  • to assess compliance of existing buildings
  • in response to complaints or identified issues
  • to inform future works and budgeting

They are often used to support informed decision-making and reduce project risk.

What Is Assessed

Access audits involve a systematic review of the built environment to identify barriers and assess usability for people with disability.

Typical elements assessed include:

  • paths of travel, entrances and circulation
  • accessible car parking and external access
  • ramps, stairs, lifts and handrails
  • sanitary facilities and fixtures
  • signage, wayfinding and luminance contrast
  • doorways, controls and building interfaces

Assessment Approach

Access audits are undertaken through on-site inspection and detailed review of the built outcome against applicable requirements.

This typically includes:

  • site inspection, measurement and documentation
  • comparison against NCC/BCA and relevant standards
  • identification of compliant and non-compliant elements
  • photographic records of key issues
  • preparation of a clear, structured report

Audit reports typically identify areas of compliance and non-compliance and provide practical recommendations to improve accessibility.

Key Considerations

Key considerations are assessed to understand the condition of the built environment and its compliance with applicable accessibility requirements.

  • compliance with NCC/BCA and accessibility standards
  • condition and maintenance of building elements
  • identification of any non-compliant elements
  • overall accessibility of the built environment
  • distinction between building conditions and user-related factors

Our Approach

Access Central provides clear, practical and evidence-based access audits tailored to the specific building and its use.

Our approach focuses on:

  • accurate assessment of existing conditions
  • clear identification of compliance issues
  • practical and prioritised recommendations
  • alignment with certification and project requirements

Conclusion

Access audits provide a clear and structured understanding of accessibility within the built environment. With appropriate assessment, they support informed decision-making and the delivery of compliant, practical and defensible outcomes.